The paper created EXCLUSIVELY for farm families and rural residents of east central Alberta
As usual, this year’s harvest features unexpected and unforeseen challenges – weather forecasts that are less than accurate and decisions you may not have typically made as a result of believing what you heard; breakdowns which are always par for the course; lingering parts shortages – with Covid still to blame, or perhaps a convenient scapegoat; trained manpower shortages – a new reality in many “fields”; and days that start out damp with less hours of sun. And dare we say anything about the potential of a drawn-out wet period (even though the entire province could use a heaping helping of ground water). Good luck with getting your crop in the bin and we hope your yield is even better than predicted.
Photo by Ron Pilger
The sun rises behind a smoke-filled sky at this early morning harvest scene just east of the City of Camrose.
OUR Diesel Engine Provider
Daysland completes wastewater project
By Murray Green
The Town of Daysland has been working hard on improving their community over the past number of years by making improvements one project at a time.
This year they completed their wastewater project with an opening on September 6.
“We are here to celebrate the completion of the wastewater upgrade. Our goal is to grow our community with shared understanding of our challenges with opportunities
and innovation that is the spirit of rural Alberta. Strong infrastructure is critical to economic development in our communities,” said BRAED (Battle River Alliance for Economic Development) chair Stan Schulmeister.
He pointed out that in 2014, BRAED had a population of 36,086 people and now they stand at 35,546, a loss of 540 people. In the same period, Edmonton went from 923,000 to 1,280,000, a gain of 205,000 people.
“Our question is how can we compete with a growing economy to sustain our communities. For the last 20 years we have relied on a community approach. As small communities we know that we can’t do this work alone. We need to work together,” added Stan.
“I thank MLA Jackie Lovely for help with funding and our staff for putting this all together,” said Daysland Deputy Mayor James “Butch” Robertson. He went
on to thank all those involved.
“We worked on getting funding for more than eight years. When COVID-19 hit, we were ready to go ahead with our project when the government wanted to get the economy going again,” said Rod Krips, former CAO of Daysland.
“When I submitted the proposal it was this thick (indicating it was a lot of paperwork) in a binder. The feedback from the ministry was that it was the most well-prepared proposal that they have ever received from anyone in the entire province, which was prepared by this man (Rod),” said MLA Lovely.
“We are so excited to complete this project and to be able to celebrate with all of you,” said current CAO of Daysland Jody Quickstad.
“Banner’s working experience with the Town of Daysland dates to 2006. We observed how the town worked carefully with the province and strategically planned upgrades to critical infrastructure including the most recent wastewater system upgrades,” said James B. Marr, president and chief engineer at Banner Environmental Engineering Consultants.
“Over the past 18 years, the town has upgraded
much of its wastewater, potable water, fire protection and storm water drainage systems. Town planning efforts, creative and innovate approaches, and their tenacious focus to stay on plan represents a modern day operational bootstrap and has positioned the town for long term sustainability, opportunities for continued community lifestyle advancements, and added new growth and prosperity possibilities for the town. In the Daysland case, the Province of Alberta stand as co-leaders and are highly deserving of gratitude and recognition for their sound and steadfast policies, mentorship and the generous financial contributions which made the execution of this work possible,” added Marr. Banner and Nu-Edge partnered to complete the project. “Nu-Edge Construction was honoured to be a part of the grand opening of the Daysland waste water upgrades. We appreciate being able to work alongside local communities and projects that support, promote, and develop rural Alberta. We look forward to further collaboration on projects to come,” shared Brett Scherger, operations manager of NuEdge Construction.
Murray Green, Camrose Booster
Celebrating the opening of the Daysland Wastewater Project are, from left to right, Brett Scherger of Nu-Edge Construction, Daniel Nappen of Banner Engineering, James Marr of Banner, MLA Jackie Lovely, Wade Lomheim of Daysland public works, Town of Daysland CAO Jody Quickstad, town councillor James Robertson, Joseph Manacsa of Banner, Ryan Donald of Fortis, Rod Krips former CAO of Daysland and Kayla Law of Fortis.
Dayna is our Very Very busy Shipping & Receiving Specialist. We rely on her Diligence, daily.
We understand agriculture!
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BRSD schools start with annual Fox Run
By Murray Green
As the new school year begins, Battle River School Division (BRSD) is warming up for another successful Terry Fox Run and the privilege to commemorate his outstanding accomplishments.
BRSD is anticipating an exciting start to the 2024-25 school year, with the Terry Fox Run being one of the first events on school agendas. Each year,
following Terry Fox Day on August 5, BRSD staff and students work efficiently to plan for and celebrate the renowned Terry Fox Run. This year, the national event took place on September 15.
The Terry Fox Foundation was inaugurated on Sept 13, 1981, after Fox’s death on June 28, 1981.
Today, now being active for 42 years, Fox’s Marathon of Hope continues
to raise funds to support cancer research.
Last year, BRSD schools collectively raised about $35,600. BRSD schools have raised an impressive total of $1.063 million during 447 Terry Fox school events throughout the history of this campaign.
Rhae-Ann Holoien, superintendent of schools, is proud of the collective efforts of staff and students
who are passionate to participate in the Terry Fox run, following Fox’s example and leadership.
“It was exciting to see the positive vibe buzzing throughout our division last fall,” said Holoien. “I can’t wait to see the elevated levels of engagement and energy at our schools in September.”
On and around September 15, BRSD will be overflowing with en -
ergized students, determined to make an even greater impact this year.
BRSD is thrilled to celebrate the start of the 2024-25 school year and the Terry Fox Run in September. BRSD schools will be sharing information about how to support the Terry Fox Foundation through student fundraising efforts.
Get moving, it’s fall fitness time
By Murray Green
Cooler temperatures and shorter days may make Albertans want to stay in and hibernate indoors. But staying active in the fall can provide many benefits, including improving your physical and mental health and overall well-being.
This time of year is a good reminder for all Albertans to bundle up, beat the fall blues and discover a variety of ways to keep your body moving.
Maintaining regular physical activity reduces your risk of chronic illnesses such as heart disease, Type-2 diabetes, stroke and certain types of cancer, according to Alberta Health Services. And while staying active in the winter may require some creativity and planning, your body and mind will thank you...and it may even make winter more fun.
Here are some ideas, tips and ways to get you started to enjoy the outdoors. Plan fun activities for yourself, friends or family. Finding new ways to enjoy the outdoors can make fall more fun. Remember to use the right protective gear, equipment, check safety guidelines and winter tips.
Schedule time for new activities before or after school or work, during a lunch break or on the weekends. Get outdoors and walking with others across Alberta. Try walking poles or use crampons for better grip.
Visit Environment Canada, 511.Alberta.ca or download the WeatherCAN or AEA Alert app for current weather and driving conditions or alerts.
Try walking, running and other activities where you move a lot to help keep you warm when the temperature dips. Take frequent warming breaks and plan activities around the warmest time of day and close to a shelter (home, coffee shops or chalets) when possible in case weather conditions change. Find an indoor location to exercise in if it’s too cold to be outdoors, like a mall or recreational centre. Join an indoor walking group or invite friends to stay motivated. Wear warm, waterproof and windproof layers, scarves, neck warmers, protective face liners and waterproof footwear. Hand and feet warmers are good sources of instant warmth. Be active outdoors during daylight hours so others can see you, but if you’re outside in early morning or evening try to wear bright colours, reflective materials and consider bringing a flashlight or headlamp with you.
Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen that is SPF 30 or higher to exposed skin before heading outside. UVR rays remain constant throughout the year, even when cold, cloudy or foggy.
Use UV eye protection for retinal protection during bright days, especially with additional reflection from snow.
Start with smaller, more achievable goals first. For example, if you want to start an outdoor activity, try a 15-minute outdoor walk on a break. Increase how long you walk by five minutes as the length becomes easier. If the temp is too cold, try walking indoors. Record and track your progress over time in a journal or activity record.
Enjoy winter sports, activities and games with friends and family who can support you to achieve your goals.
Canada’s 24 Hour Movement Guidelines recommend adults ages 18 to 64 are active at least 150 minutes per week with aerobic activities (walking, jogging, biking), sleep seven to nine hours per night, limit screen time and break up long periods of sitting as often as possible.
Learn more about movement guidelines for different ages by visiting 24-Hour Movement Guidelines–Canadian 24-Hour Movement Guidelines (csepguidelines.ca).
Girls in WISEST technology
By Murray Green
WISEST (Women in Scholarship, Engineering, Science and Technology), invited Camrose MLA Jackie Lovely to join the white paper presentation on August 14 to celebrate the research work conducted by 41 Grade 11 students this summer at the University of Alberta.
WISEST is a unit of the University of Alberta which has existed since 1982. For more than 40 years, they have continued a commitment to empowering youth who are interested in pursuing STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) opportunities in which their gender has been under-represented.
The WISEST Summer Research Program is a six-week paid research experience that incorporates numerous professional development experiences to build students’ confidence and skills in STEM fields.
This past summer, they placed 41 young women and gender diverse individuals in varying science, engineering
and computing science labs.
Madison Mickla from Daysland and Amanda Cepeda from Hardisty were successfully accepted into the 2024 Summer Research Program.
The accomplishments of these bright young students was shared at the annual Celebration of Research, which spotlights the research the students have completed throughout the Program.
Amanda is from Hardisty, but attends Irma School. Her project focussed on a deployable robot for mobile inspections. “WISEST was a very memorable and unforgettable experience that I would definitely recommend to other girls, such as myself, in rural communities where STEM is not often a focus,” said Amanda Cepeda.
Madison is from Daysland and attends school there. She is also in Grade 11. Her project focused on applying image-based pose detection algorithms to Tello Drone.
Submitted
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From, left to right, MLA Jackie Lovely, Catherine Cepeda, Ezzie Cepeda, Jonathan Cepeda and Amanda Cepeda.
From, left to right, MLA Jackie Lovely, Madison Mickla, Mark Mickla, Mitchell Mickla and Jeanni Hoermann.
Grandma Brenda Mucz enjoyed a wagon ride with a very special visitor, her five-year-old granddaughter, Ila Harder, who was visiting all the way from New York City.
Recruited family doctor now open
By Murray Green
A newly recruited fam ily physician is now avail able to provide care to residents in Camrose and area.
Dr. Dareen Turki is working out of the Gemini Clinic and St. Mary’s Hospital. Individuals needing a family doctor can call 780-672-9850 to arrange a meet-and-greet appointment.
“This is wonderful news for patients in Camrose,” said Jackie Lovely, MLA for Camrose. “Dr. Turki is a welcome addition to the Camrose medical team and she is sure to be a great asset to our community.”
The Gemini Clinic now has three physicians serving the community.
Dr. Turki received her medical training and practised in Libya beginning in 2009 prior to coming to Canada.
In her leisure time, Dr. Turki loves to experience different cultures, meet new people and has recently been learning to ski.
Alberta Health Services (AHS) continues to recruit for physicians across the Central Zone to meet community needs.
AHS has physician resource planners who are dedicated to identifying and pursuing international and domestic physician recruitment opportunities.
Camrose County businesses to join the annual
a shop-local initiative running from Nov. 4 to Dec. 20, 2024. If you do not have a storefront , or if you operate a seasonal business, you can still par ticipate!
Participation is simple:
• Donate a GIF T CARD valued at a minimum of $50 (or more, in increments of $50 cards) for your business or the local business you choose from within the region. The se gift cards will be used to engage and reward the public for shopping locally. With your gift card donation, you will be included in the Choose Camrose Region Gift Guide (NE W!), social media and video features!
• Optional – In addition to your gift card donation, you could purchase a GNOME - themed selfie picture frame (with your business name on it) to have within your business. People shopping for the holidays will be encouraged to visit your business, take a picture with your gnome frame and your business name and share the se pic tures on social media for their chance to win the previously mentioned gi ft cards weekly with a grand prize draw on December 20th wor th $1,000
For more information and to register, visit tourismcamrose.com/gnome Deadline to re gister : October 7, 2024
For recent ne ws, contests and communit y happenings… Follow Camrose County on Facebook
CAMROSE COUNT Y SEED CLE ANING PL ANT REMINDER !
The grain needs to be tested for Fusarium before it can be brought into the Camrose County Seed Cleaning Plant to be cleaned! Follow Seed Cleaning Plant Facebook page for the latest news Fill out the U of A Winter Wheat SURVE Y
Thank You!
Camrose Count y would like to extend a hear tfelt thank you to all of our summer students for their contribu tions throughout the season. Wishing you all the best in your fu ture endeavours!
BRCF grants Hardisty Library
Submitted
The Battle River Community Foundation awarded a $2,000 grant to the Hardisty Library Board.
The Hardisty Library Board received funds from the Foundation to purchase two printer-scanners, replacing the old malfunctioning equipment. Patrons of the Library from students to seniors regularly use the service.
The grant to the Hardisty Library Board was funded from income earned by the Doreen and Irving Bell Fund, Dale and Shelley Drever Fund, Dick and Annie Drever Fund, Doug and Helen Drever Fund and the Ian Harrison Memorial Fund. These types of funds allow the Foundation board to match annual grant applicants with the interests donors wish to support.
The Battle River Community Foundation exists to support organizations in east central Alberta that benefit the local communities and positively impact the future.
Grants from the Battle River Community Foundation are primarily made possible through the generosity of individual donors and organizations that have created endowment funds. The principal of these endowment funds is kept intact, and the income is made available annually to support local projects and organizations.
Since it was founded in 1995, the Battle River Community Foundation has granted over $9,308,006 to support charitable activities in the Battle River Region.
Single Car Garage Approx. 10'x20' Built in 2022. Zoned: Commercial - Utilities: 220 Power, Gas & Town Water This Property Could be an Excellent Investment as Killiam is Located at the Intersection of Hwy 36 & Hwy 13 in the County of Flagstaff with a Population of 1000 People & Lots of Oilfield Activity in the Area. OR You could use it as your home with a private campground right on a beautiful lake. There are so many options for this property.
Open Houses: Saturday - September 21st & Sunday - September 29th from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Owner: Tom at (780-719-8877)
Realtor & For More Information: Hill Realty Inc. Norm Hill (780) 449-5622 or Aaron Olson (403) 913-9644
Fall Machinery Consignment Auction
is published for Controlled Distribution By CAMROSE BOOSTER LTD. Blain Fowler, Publisher Circulation 11,639 copies
Providing coverage to the communities of Camrose (RRs and Boxes only), Ohaton, Edberg, Meeting Creek, Donalda, Bawlf, Kelsey Rosalind, Daysland, Heisler Strome, Forestburg, Galahad, Castor (farms), Killam, Sedgewick, Lougheed, Coronation/Brownfield, Alliance, Hardisty Amisk, Hughenden, Czar Metiskow Cadogan, Provost (farms), Armena, Hay Lakes, New Sarepta, Round Hill, Kingman, Tofield, Ryley Holden, Bruce, Viking, Kinsella, Irma, Wainwright (farms and lock boxes), New Norway, Ferintosh, Bashaw, Bittern Lake, Gwynne, Stettler (farms).
Government supports seniors in their homes for as long as possible
By Murray Green Alberta’s
government is making significant investments to improve supports for seniors, to ensure that they can live with dignity, well-being and age well at home in their chosen community.
Seniors are the pillars of communities. Seniors across the province have told the government that they want to live in their homes for as long as possible. They are taking significant action to promote healthy aging in Alberta, so that seniors are guaranteed the best outcomes possible
as they age.
Aging in community means that seniors need to have access to the health and social supports and services that are needed in order for them to live safely and independently in their own homes and communities for as long as they like or are able. Investing in these supports will ensure that a rising number of seniors in Alberta will be able to successfully and safely age where they are most comfortable.
“I believe that our Alberta seniors deserve comfort and familiarity as they
age, which is why our government is committed to improving supports and programs that allow seniors to age safely and independently in their own communities and homes,” said Jackie Lovely, MLA for Camrose.
This investment includes funding for Bashaw and Camrose, which will
be used to increase home and community supports, as well as to work towards minimizing elder abuse through the Alberta Elder Abuse Awareness Council.
Alberta’s senior’s population is now at 790,000.
In 2023, the senior’s population increased by about 2,500 each month.
The province’s senior’s
population is expected to increase to more than one million by 2035. The breakdown of the funding to be distributed over three years: $12 million over three years for in-home supports and $3 million for community-based supports in other (outside of Edmonton and Calgary) major centres across the province.
CRE postpones Bull Congress to winter 2026
By Murray Green
• This week’s prize
this is your f arm, The farm appearing in this photograph is located in the Camrose trading area. If you recognize it as yours, come to the Camrose Booster, 4925-48 Street, Camrose. You will be presented with a free 8” x 10” colour enlargement of the photo.
by October 15, 2024. • Mystery Far m winners for August 20: Allan and Elouise Gordeyko, Ohaton
The Camrose Regional Exhibition and Agricultural Society (CRE) is taking a year off from hosting the Canadian Bull Congress.
“The CRE has been under financial pressure since COVID-19 as seen by all areas of the event industry. In 2024, the CRE was advised by their lending partner ATB Financial that all debt must now be eliminated to have any chance of moving forward as an organization,” said CRE president Brent Byers.
The CRE board of directors has spent many hours working through the past, present and future financial positions, strategized and explored all methods of drastically reducing the debt to ensure the future survival of the organization.
To satisfy ATB Financial, the CRE board authorized an asset auction that happened on September 4 to 10. “The proceeds of this auction will be used to pay down as much debt as possible. That auction will include all our livestock steel, sales rings and chutes. As the value remains on the steel, it was important to include it,” shared Brent.
BUILDING MATERIALS
“The CRE will therefore need to put the Canadian Bull Congress 2025 on hiatus and will not be able to run the event in January 2025. We are working through some options when it comes to the Canadian Bull Congress and the future of this event. The CRE’s intent is to have a solution in place by the summer of 2025 for the Canadian Bull Congress 2026,” said Brent. CRE board and staff are committed to keeping the 108-year-old agricultural society alive and future focused. “We did not want to make this decision, but unfortunately it is necessary to ensure future survival. We truly appreciate your past support, we will reach out again when a new plan for Canadian Bull Congress in 2026 is found,” said Brent.
Contact executive director, Dianne Kohler via phone at 780-672-3640 or by email at dkohler@cre. ab.ca to book your events.
“Thank you for your support and we look forward to working with you in the future,” Brent concluded.
